Sandra McQuinn, MA, LPC, LCDC

I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help patients understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we identify unhelpful thinking patterns, improve emotional regulation, build healthy coping skills, and develop realistic strategies for overcoming life’s challenges. Faith-based support is always optional, patient-directed, and intended to complement-not replace-clinical treatment. My goal is to respect each patient’s beliefs while providing compassionate, ethical, and individualized care. I strongly believe in pet therapy and so if my patients have a dog, I can share some interesting activities and pet care activities (cooking, training etc.) that can be therapeutic for my patient. Patients often share with me that they appreciate having a therapist who is approachable, nonjudgmental, and willing to listen to difficult or uncomfortable topics without reacting in a way that feels shocking or critical. Many have expressed that they feel understood and accepted, even when discussing experiences, thoughts, or behaviors they may feel ashamed of sharing with others. One of the unique qualities I bring to therapy is my ability to genuinely connect with my patients through shared life experiences and a broad understanding of the challenges people face. My experience as an adoptive parent, teacher, and school counselor has given me a well-rounded perspective on the challenges families may have in the school setting. I can understand everyone’s viewpoints which helps me develop practical, compassionate solutions in difficult situations. I am also highly experienced with Veterans and First Responders, dealing with trauma and PTSD. Having lived through many different seasons of life, including difficult times, career changes, personal growth, and major transitions, I am able to meet patients with empathy, authenticity, and a deeper understanding of the struggles they bring into session. Patients often appreciate that I do not approach their experiences from a place of judgment, but rather from a place of compassion and understanding.